Reilly relishing chance to book cup final spot
Arthurlie gaffer says players will show no fear in return leg
ARTHURLIE manager Colin Reilly insists his players will attack Johnstone Burgh from the off in the second leg of their Scottish Junior Cup semifinal this weekend.
The teams fought out a 2-2 draw in front of more than 1,300 spectators at Dunterlie Park on Sunday, with everything to play for in the return clash.
Mark Docherty fired the Barrhead outfit into the lead, only for ex-Rangers man Kyle Lafferty to drill home a penalty to level things up.
Connor Bradley restored the home team’s advantage with a superb curling effort just before the hour mark but former Arthurlie man Dale Simeon came back to haunt his old team with 15 minutes to go as he tapped the ball home at the back post.
Reilly believes his players did enough to deserve a victory and is hoping they can complete the job when the second leg takes place this Saturday.
He said: “We’re still in the tie and now it comes down to a oneleg semi-final, so we’re looking forward to it.
“We spoke about starting with the high press and a high tempo but we also needed to show Johnstone Burgh that respect.
“We’re in a bit of a relegation fight in the league but it’s a really good dressing room and the boys are together.
“They are all working hard for each other and they’ve not had that little bit of luck but it’ll come.
“I’m not the type of manager to sit back, so we’ll go there on Saturday and take the game to them.
“We’ll show them respect but we’ll go and take the game to them and hopefully we come out winners in the end.”
Arthurlie chiefs were delighted by the attendance at Sunday’s match and sent a message to fans to praise them for getting behind the team.
A spokesperson said: “The football club wishes to thank you for your fantastic support.
“A massive vote of thanks also goes to all of the volunteers who played their part in the hosting of the match.
“With the tie finely balanced, we look forward to seeing you all at Keanie Park next Saturday night to cheer the team into the final.”
Kick-off for the return leg is at 5.30pm.